What are the symptoms of hepatitis A?

Hepatitis A is an infection that affects the liver. Early symptoms can resemble a mild flu-like illness, with low energy, nausea or reduced appetite. As liver inflammation develops, urine may become darker and the skin or whites of the eyes may look yellow. Some people, particularly children, may have very mild symptoms or none at all, so symptoms alone cannot confirm the infection.

Arrange medical advice if several of these symptoms appear together, especially after possible exposure to contaminated food, water or an infected person. A clinician may assess your symptoms and arrange a Liver Function Test or other blood tests. Rest, drink fluids if you can, and avoid alcohol until you have been assessed. Hepatitis A Vaccination may be discussed for prevention or after a relevant exposure.

Seek prompt medical care for yellow skin or eyes, very dark urine, worsening vomiting, inability to keep fluids down, severe abdominal pain, unusual sleepiness or confusion. These symptoms can signal significant liver illness or dehydration and need clinical assessment. If you feel acutely unwell, seek urgent help rather than waiting for symptoms to settle.

Ask whether your symptoms fit hepatitis A or another liver problem, which tests are appropriate, how to reduce spread at home, and whether people close to you need vaccination advice.